Herbert Vic
The second most popular drink after plain old H2O, tea is believed to be healthier than water. It is regarded as a key to good health, happiness, and wisdom, and captured the attention of researchers, who continue to expose numerous of benefits of tea day by day.
People have been drinking tea for centuries also because of its health effects. A great deal research implies drinking tea, particularly green tea, which has the tendency to fight diseases and even lengthen life. This is due to tea's high concentration of antioxidants called polyphenols, which may have a say in the deterrence of cancer, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular diseases. Even though polyphenols are also found in profusion in fruits, vegetables, and grains, and also another of the favorite caffeinated beverages -coffee in even higher amounts, tea is particularly and uniquely rich in specific types of polyphenols called catechins (specifically, EGCG) that may be the most powerful ones of all.
Black, green, white, and oolong tea varieties — are full of antioxidants that can help reduce the risk of certain diseases, boost up immunity, and improve heart health. Drinking tea is an excellent habit to have, but are you exploiting the most out of your cup? Here are some tips to harness the most out of your cup of tea:
Steeping can draw out your tea's catechins, so keep it in your cup longer to take advantage of these antioxidants. If you're concerned about getting a higher dose of caffeine in your strong cups of tea, then switch to decaffeinated tea, in which the antioxidant content is still strong.
Adding milk to your cup of tea may be a delight, but if you're looking to get the fullest benefit from tea's disease-fighting power, then opt for plain tea- with no milk. Some say that adding milk may reduce the antioxidant potential. Studies have shown that milk drains tea of its health properties; one study found that soy milk too lessened the health effects of tea. It is also said to have decrease the insulin-sensitizing effects.
Certain items, when combined with tea, can actually increase the antioxidant levels, so go ahead and add them to your cup. Citrus fruits such as lemon and lime, for instance, have been known to maximize the effectiveness of green tea's catechins, while cinnamon, honey, and nutmeg all are antioxidant-rich foods in their own right, and make great tea add-ons.
Most of the research recommend the more cups of tea you drink a day (five or more), better the health effect. But some also found benefits by just drinking two to three cups a day, which is what was revealed by a nurse practitioner and physician assistants network for patients as a "trouble-free, healthy lifestyle strategy." There is nothing to worry because, tea is hydrating and doesn't trigger as a diuretic. The two-to-three cups a day suggestion fits in with most supplements’ recommended daily serving of 200 mg EGCG.
Health benefits of tea are numerous. Drinking tea can stimulate the brain and nervous system; protect you against cardiovascular diseases; lower the risk of diabetes and even fight against cancer. It’s about time you started drinking more tea. Tea is always safe to consume, just not in excessive amounts. But keep in mind to always opt for the best tea brands. Ensure Ceylon Tea is on the top of your list, as its infusions from the tropical island present a large range of delightful offerings for the discerning tea drinker. Now go ahead, thrown on a kettle and dig out some tea.
